Arsenal refuse loan offers for Jakub Kiwior, insist on sale only | OneFootball

Arsenal have made it clear that they are not interested in allowing Jakub Kiwior to leave on loan, despite interest from Bologna and other clubs across Europe.

The Gunners, who signed the versatile defender from Spezia in January 2023 for around £21 million, are only open to a permanent transfer if the right offer comes along.

Corriere dello Sport 25 August 2024

Recent reports from Corriere dello Sport highlighted Bologna’s search for a central defender, with Kiwior’s name being one of several options considered by the Italian side.

However, Arsenal’s stance on the Polish international is firm: they will only entertain discussions regarding a sale, not a loan.

Meanwhile, La Gazetta dello Sport also report similar, writing that Bologna met with Kiwior’s agent and were told Arsenal would only agree to a loan if it comes with an obligation to buy.

The Gunners value the player at between €18m and €20m.

La Gazzetta dello Sport25 Aug 2024

Kiwior’s adaptability has been a key factor in his value to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Capable of playing both as a left-sided centre-back and a left-back, he has provided important cover since his arrival at the Emirates.

Despite limited appearances in his first few months, Kiwior featured more prominently toward the end of the 2022/23 season and was praised for his performances, particularly in helping Arsenal secure clean sheets in crucial fixtures.

CARSON, CALIFORNIA – JULY 24: Jakub Kiwior #15 of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring during the penalty kick shootout against AFC Bournemouth at Dignity Health Sports Park on July 24, 2024 in Carson, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)

For Bologna, Arsenal’s stance represents a stumbling block.

The Serie A side have been exploring loan deals as a cost-effective way to strengthen their squad, particularly after their pursuit of more experienced defenders like Mats Hummels, currently without a club, fell through.

However, with Arsenal focused on either keeping Kiwior or securing a permanent transfer, Bologna’s hopes of acquiring the player on a short-term deal appear unlikely.

Additionally, Kiwior remains an important part of Arsenal’s squad depth, especially given the club’s ambitions in multiple competitions this season.

Arteta values having a range of defensive options, and Kiwior’s ability to slot into different roles makes him a key figure as the Gunners push for both domestic and European success.

Jakub Kiwior and William Saliba in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)

Unless a club is prepared to meet Arsenal’s valuation for Kiwior, it’s likely that the 24-year-old will remain at the Emirates, continuing to develop as part of Arteta’s evolving project.

For Bologna, and other potential suitors, this stance means they will have to look elsewhere if they are unwilling or unable to commit to a permanent deal.

They are already being linked with Chancel Mbemba, a 30-year-old defender currently out of favour at Marseille. Mbemba has also attracted interest from Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, but a well-connected intermediary has reportedly offered him to Bologna.

Other backup plans include Alex and Bruno Amione from Sampdoria and Verona, respectively.

Bologna, meanwhile, have confirmed the arrived of midfielder Tommaso Pobega who will wear the number 18 shirt. Medical examinations are also scheduled for for two wide players: Samuel Iling-Junior from Aston Villa, who arrives on loan, and Ben Domínguez from Gimnasia La Plata, who joins permanently for €4 million plus a 20% sell-on clause.